Maintaining Healthy Baby Teeth

Primary (baby) teeth play a crucial role in a child’s development, even though they will eventually be replaced by permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth:

  • Help with enunciation and speech production.
  • Assist in proper chewing and nutrition.
  • Maintain space for adult teeth.
  • Prevent abnormal tongue posture.
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Premature loss of baby teeth can lead to adjacent teeth shifting, impacted adult teeth, prolonged orthodontic treatment, and poor aesthetics. Babies are at risk for tooth decay as soon as the first tooth emerges, usually around six months. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a “well-baby checkup” around twelve months of age.

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay (early childhood caries) affects infants and toddlers, most commonly the upper front teeth. Severe decay may require tooth extraction and a space maintainer to prevent misalignment. Regular dental checkups and good home care can prevent this condition.

How Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Starts

Decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria, often transmitted from parents through saliva. Frequent exposure to sweetened liquids—breast milk, formula, juice, or sweetened water—especially at bedtime or naptime, allows bacteria to produce acids that wear away enamel, causing cavities.

Infants with insufficient fluoride are at higher risk, as fluoride protects enamel and promotes remineralization. Your pediatric dentist can assess fluoride needs through examinations and questionnaires.

Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay at Home

Parents play a vital role in prevention. Follow these steps to maintain a healthy smile:

  • Avoid saliva transfer: rinse pacifiers and toys, use a clean spoon for each person.
  • Clean gums after every feeding with a clean washcloth.
  • Begin brushing with an appropriate toothbrush and ADA-approved toothpaste when teeth emerge. Use fluoride-free toothpaste for children under two.
  • Once the child can spit, use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Avoid overuse to prevent fluorosis.
  • Do not put sugary drinks in bottles or sippy cups; use water, breast milk, or formula.
  • Transition to a regular cup around twelve months.
  • Do not dip pacifiers in sweet liquids like honey.
  • Promote a nutritious diet and limit sugar-filled snacks.
  • Do not let the child go to bed with a liquid-filled bottle; use water if necessary.
  • Brush the child’s teeth until age seven, as they may not reach all areas themselves.
  • Ask your pediatric dentist to review the child’s fluoride levels.

If you have questions or concerns about baby bottle tooth decay, please contact our office for guidance.